What is a red eye flight?

A "red-eye flight" is a flight that departs late at night and arrives early in the morning. The name comes from the fact that travelers often have red, bloodshot eyes from lack of sleep on the flight.

Here's some information about them:

Pros:

• Cost: Red-eye flights can sometimes be cheaper than daytime flights, especially if they're less popular. Airlines may offer lower fares to fill seats on overnight flights.
• Time Efficiency: You save a whole day by flying overnight. You arrive at your destination and can start your activities immediately, rather than wasting a day traveling.
• Less Crowded (potentially): Some red-eyes might be less crowded than daytime flights, leading to a more comfortable experience. This is not always guaranteed.

Cons:

• Sleep Deprivation: This is the biggest downside. Sleeping on a plane is difficult for many people, and arriving sleep-deprived can negatively impact your first day at your destination.
• Jet Lag: The disruption to your natural sleep cycle can exacerbate jet lag, particularly on long-haul flights.
• Inconvenience: You'll need to travel to the airport late at night, potentially requiring late-night transportation and possibly impacting your pre-flight routines. You'll also likely arrive at your destination very early, when many services might not yet be open.
• Safety Concerns: Some people may feel less safe traveling at night, particularly if they are alone.
• Meal quality: Meals served on red-eye flights are often less appealing than those served during daytime flights.

Tips for surviving a red-eye:

• Prepare for sleep: Bring a neck pillow, eye mask, earplugs, and comfortable clothing.
• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water throughout the flight to combat dehydration.
• Consider a sleep aid (consult your doctor first): Melatonin or other sleep aids might help, but check with your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
• Choose your seat wisely: A window seat can provide some privacy and allow you to lean against the wall.
• Manage expectations: Don't expect to get a full night's sleep. Focus on resting as much as possible.

Ultimately, whether a red-eye flight is right for you depends on your individual priorities and tolerance for discomfort. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before booking.